Creamy Paal Kappa/ Milk Cassava

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Gayatri (@rene121)

Paal Kappa/ Milk Cassava is a traditional dish from the South Indian state of Kerala, especially popular among the Christian communities in the central and southern regions. The name translates to 'milk tapioca,' where 'paal' means milk and 'kappa' means tapioca. It is made by cooking tapioca pieces in coconut...

Creamy Paal Kappa/ Milk Cassava recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
35min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion)
  • Cleaned Tapioca
    Cleaned Tapioca
    500g
  • Shallots
    Shallots
    4clove
  • Garlic
    Garlic
    1clove
  • Green chilli
    Green chilli
    1
  • Medium thick Coconut milk
    Medium thick Coconut milk
    300mL
  • Salt
    Salt

For tempering

  • Oil
    Oil
    1tbsp
  • Shallots
    Shallots
    4clove
  • Dried red chilli
    Dried red chilli
    2
  • Curry leaves
    Curry leaves
    1sprig

How to make Creamy Paal Kappa/ Milk Cassava

  1. Step 1

    Cut the peeled tapioca into cubes.

  2. Step 2

    Boil 3/4 litre of water and drop the tapioca pieces into it along with salt.

  3. Step 3

    Allow the tapioca to cook until the pieces become tender. Turn off the flame and strain it. Set aside.

  4. Step 4

    Crush the shallots, garlic, and green chilli.

    Step 1.1: Crush the shallots, garlic, and green chilli
  5. Step 5

    Add the strained tapioca pieces, crushed shallots, garlic, and green chilli to a khadai and mix.

  6. Step 6

    Add coconut milk and enough salt. Cook this on medium flame. Slightly mash it.

    Step 1.1: Add coconut milk and enough salt
  7. Step 7

    When it starts bubbling, stir continuously for 4-5 minutes on medium to high flame. Turn off the flame.

    Step 1.1: When it starts bubbling, stir continuously for 4-5 minutes on medium to high flame
  8. Step 8

    For tempering, heat a pan and add oil. When it becomes hot, add mustard seeds and wait for them to pop.

  9. Step 9

    Add dried red chilli pieces and sauté for 3-4 seconds.

  10. Step 10

    Add sliced shallots and curry leaves. Sauté until the shallots turn golden brown.

    Step 1.1: Add sliced shallots and curry leaves
  11. Step 11

    Turn off the flame and add the tempering to the cooked tapioca mixture. Mix well.

    Step 1.1: Turn off the flame and add the tempering to the cooked tapioca mixture

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

271.4kcal (13.57%)

Protein

1.7g (3.4%)

Carbs

23.9g (8.7%)

Sugars

0.9g (1.9%)

Healthy Fat

2.1g

Unhealthy Fat

16.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the tapioca is cooked until tender.

  2. Use fresh coconut milk for a richer flavor.

  3. Adjust the amount of green chilli based on your spice preference.

  4. Pair this dish with spicy fish curry or beef fry for a balanced meal.

FAQS

  1. Can I use store-bought coconut milk?

    Yes, you can use store-bought coconut milk, but fresh coconut milk will provide a richer and more authentic flavor.

  2. How do I know when the tapioca is cooked?

    The tapioca is cooked when it becomes tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

  3. Can I make this dish spicier?

    Yes, you can add more green chilies or use spicier varieties of dried red chilies in the tempering.

  4. What can I serve Paal Kappa with?

    Paal Kappa pairs well with spicy fish curry, beef fry, or even a simple vegetable stir-fry.

  5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time, but reheat it gently to avoid overcooking the tapioca.

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rene121's profile picture

Gayatri

(@rene121)

Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. ...

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